Program Overview

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Mathematical Optimization Degree

The world is complex, and there’s a mathematical problem-solving tool for that. Optimization algorithms are quietly at work all around you, from shipping schedules to food logistics and emergency room triage plans. Optimization experts know how to use math to detect patterns, make the most of resources, and create the best possible outcomes in a wide variety of industries.

Overview

Start with a solid math foundation, including combinatorics, forecasting, and computer simulation. You’ll learn the skills to draft the best possible schedules for airline crews flying around the world or build a game schedule for major league sporting events. Optimization improves distribution efficiency for manufacturing companies, can help develop sophisticated tools for investors, and even find the best way to auction off radio frequencies to telecom companies.

What Courses Will You Take in Mathematical Optimization?

First-Year Courses

During your first year, you'll take a mix of foundational courses in Math and Computer Science. In upper years, most of your classes will be combinatorics and optimization courses. You'll also take additional mathematics courses. You may also select advanced-stream courses for algebra, calculus, and computer science if you meet the requirements.

• MATH 135 – Algebra for Honours Mathematics
• MATH 137 – Calculus 1 for Honours Mathematics
• Choose one course from:
  • CS 115 – Introduction to Computer Science 1
  • CS 135 – Designing Functional Programs
• One communication skills course
• One elective

January to April

• MATH 136 – Linear Algebra 1 for Honours Mathematics
• MATH 138 – Calculus 2 for Honours Mathematics
• Choose one course from:
  • CS 116 – Introduction to Computer Science 2
  • CS 136 – Elementary Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction
• Two electives

After First Year

Most of the required courses you’ll take will be combinatorics and optimization courses, with additional courses in mathematics. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo.

Sample Upper-Year Courses

• CO 351 – Network Flow Theory
• CO 372 – Portfolio Optimization Models
• CO 456 – Introduction to Game Theory
• CO 463 – Convex Optimization and Analysis

Customize Your Degree

In upper years, you'll select Business or Operations Research as your specialization. You can also add additional areas of expertise to your degree by including one or more of the minors available to all Waterloo students.

Co-op and Careers

Co-op = Relevant Paid Work Experience

In the world's leading co-op program, you'll explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience — and make money!

Sample Co-op Job Titles

• Product Manager Intern
• Ad Operations Intern
• Internet Marketing & Analytics Intern
• Product Manager Intern
• Business Analyst

Co-op Work-Study Sequence

Starting in second year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Mathematical Optimization?

Waterloo Mathematical Optimization graduates commonly pursue careers in software development, business analysis, and operations. They often work in financial institutions, consulting companies, universities, and more.

Recent Graduates

• App Software Developer - Bank of Montreal
• Business Analyst - ThoughtWorks Canada
• Business Technology Analyst - Deloitte Touche LLP
• Health Information Analyst - Ministry of Health Services, British Columbia
• IT Architect - Scotiabank
• Institutional Analyst - University of Waterloo
• Manager, Business Operations - Fortune Metals Inc.

Admission Requirements

Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including:

• Advanced Functions
• Calculus and Vectors
• Any 4U English
• One other 4U course

Recommended course: Grade 11 U Introduction to Computer Science

Admission averages: Individual selection from the mid-80s

We strongly encourage you to participate in the Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest and/or the Euclid Mathematics Contest to enhance your admissions status.

Faculty and Degree

• Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics
• Degree: Bachelor of Mathematics in Mathematical Optimization
• Available as a co-op program: Yes
• Available as a regular program: Yes
• Available as a minor: No

Student Life

Math Society (MathSoc) is run by students for students and provides a wide range of clubs, services, and social and academic events to make your experience as a Waterloo math student the best it can be.

• Hack the North: Meet students from around the world by participating in competitions such as Hack the North, Canada's largest hack-a-thon.
• Women in Mathematics: The Women in Mathematics (WiM) community encourages and advocates for women of all ages who are interested in studying math and pursuing a career in a related area.
• Women in Computer Science: Women in Computer Science (WiCS) promotes gender equity for students interested in studying computer science.

Academics and Research

Waterloo's degree completion rate for Mathematics programs is 86% compared to 79% for similar programs across Ontario.

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.